Disposable sanitary mitts and dispensing device

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a mitt dispensing system having a mitt dispensing device and a plurality of finger covering mitts in a stack. Each finger covering mitt has a base sheet and a cover sheet sealed together around the entirety of each sheet. Each cover sheet defines an opening therethrough and the edges defining the opening have at least two flaps. The dispensing device has a body with a base wall, four side walls, and a top wall and a saddle disposed in the body and having a top surface and two angled support walls extending downwardly and outwardly from the top surface. The saddle defines two cavities within the body for receiving a stack of finger covering mitts. The flaps of a top finger covering mitt in the stack of mitts orient in a generally inclined direction away from the underlying base sheet when the plurality of finger covering mitts are disposed on the top surface of the saddle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and all benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/090,906, filed on Oct. 13, 2020, for DISPOSABLE SANITARY MITTS AND DISPENSING DEVICE, the entire disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Protective or sanitary finger coverings, such as gloves or individual finger covers, may be utilized to protect a user's fingers from contaminants (e.g., grease, dirt, etc.), irritants (e.g., detergents or other chemicals), bacteria, or other substances. Such coverings may additionally or alternatively be utilized to prevent the spread of bacteria from the user's fingers to an object or material being handled by the user, such as, for example, food or sensitive electronic equipment. However, conventional plastic gloves or finger covers may be cumbersome or time consuming for the user to store, retrieve, put on, and/or take off.

Exemplary finger covers and finger cover dispensers are also described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,261,938 to Oradini, the entire disclose of which is incorporated herein by reference.

SUMMARY

The present application contemplates and generally discloses inventive finger covering mitts and inventive devices for dispensing one or more finger covering mitts. In one embodiment, a finger covering mitt is disclosed that forms at least a partial fluid barrier over at least a portion of a user's finger or fingers. Embodiments of the mitts may be used in a wide variety of applications to protect the fingers of a user from becoming dirty or soiled by a foreign object. For example, an embodiment of a finger covering mitt as disclosed in the present application is suitable to use when handling greasy or sticky food to protect the fingers from becoming soiled. As another example, an embodiment of a finger covering mitt may protect the user and those encountered by the user from transmission of harmful bacteria, germs, viruses, and other pathogens. The finger covering mitts may be adapted to be placed onto a finger and may, for example, be moisture resistant or impermeable, stackable, sanitary, easily dispensable, bio-degradable and/or recyclable, and generally inexpensive.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a finger covering mitt includes a base sheet portion and a cover sheet portion each having first and second longitudinal edges and first and second lateral edges defining an outer perimeter, joined together to form a sealed perimeter of the finger covering mitt. The cover sheet portion defines an opening inset from the sealed perimeter and defining at least first and second flaps defined by a cut pattern in the cover sheet portion, such that the first and second flaps extend into abutment with each other. The sealed perimeter and the opening define first and second finger pockets between the base sheet portion and cover sheet portion at first and second longitudinal ends of the finger covering mitt. The opening is sized to receive a user's thumb into the first finger pocket and the user's fingers into the second finger pocket.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a finger covering mitt includes a base sheet portion and a cover sheet portion each having first and second longitudinal edges and first and second lateral edges defining an outer perimeter, joined together to form a sealed perimeter of the finger covering mitt. The cover sheet portion defines an opening between first and second longitudinal ends of the finger covering mitt and defines a first flap proximate the first longitudinal end and a second flap proximate the second longitudinal end, wherein at least the second flap has a width that is at least about 65% of a total width of the finger covering mitt. The sealed perimeter and the opening defining a first and second finger pockets between the base sheet portion and cover sheet portion at the corresponding first and second longitudinal ends of the finger covering mitt. The opening is sized to receive a user's thumb into the first finger pocket and the user's fingers into the second finger pocket.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of making a finger covering mitt is contemplated. In the exemplary method, a strip of mitt material is provided, including a base sheet portion and a cover sheet portion. A cut pattern is cut in the cover sheet portion. The strip of material is folded along a central portion of the strip to form a first edge of the finger covering mitt, and joined edges of the folded strip are sealed to form second, third and fourth edges of the finger covering mitt.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of making a finger covering mitt is contemplated. In the exemplary method, a base sheet portion and a cover sheet portion are provided. A cut pattern is cut in the cover sheet portion without removing material from the cover sheet portion. Joined edges of the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion are sealed to form a sealed outer perimeter of the finger covering mitt, with the cut pattern in the cover sheet portion sized and positioned to receive a user's hand therethrough.

There are numerous embodiments of the methods and devices described herein, all of which are intended to be non-limiting examples. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The invention is far broader than the descriptions of the specific embodiments below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, embodiments of the invention are illustrated, which, together with the detailed description given below, serve to exemplify embodiments of the invention:

FIG. 1 is a top view of a finger covering mitt;

FIGS. 2A-2F are top views of finger covering mitts depicting various possible openings;

FIGS. 3A-3J are top views of finger covering mitts including various cut pattern opening;

FIG. 4 is a top view of a strip of mitt material for forming a finger covering mitt;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a method for making a finger covering mitt;

FIG. 6 is an upper perspective view of a finger covering mitt dispensing device;

FIG. 7 is a top view of a finger covering mitt dispensing device;

FIG. 8 is a side view of a plurality of finger covering mitts disposed in a finger covering mitt dispensing device;

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate various mitt and dispensing device uses and arrangements;

FIG. 9 is a top view of a finger covering mitt dispensing device;

FIG. 10 is an upper perspective view of a finger covering mitt dispensing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts and features of the inventions—such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, circuits, devices and components, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on—may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Parameters identified as “approximate” or “about” a specified value are intended to include both the specified value and values within 10% of the specified value, unless expressly stated otherwise. Further, it is to be understood that the drawings accompanying the present disclosure may, but need not, be to scale, and therefore may be understood as teaching various ratios and proportions evident in the drawings. Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended claims. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.

It should be noted that for the purposes of this application, the terms attach (attached) and connect (connected) are not limited to direct attachment or connection (unless expressly identified as such), but also include indirect attachment or connection with intermediate parts, components, or assemblies being located between the two parts being attached or connected linked to one another. In addition, the terms attach (attached) and connect (connected) may include two parts integrally formed or unitarily constructed. For the purposes of this application, the term finger refers not only to the index, middle, ring, and small fingers, but also the thumb.

In an inventive embodiment of a finger covering mitt, a component or structure capable of forming at least a partial fluid barrier may be structured to cover at least a portion of a user's fingers. Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a finger covering mitt 10 is illustrated.

In the depicted embodiment, the finger covering mitt 10 has a base sheet 12 defining an outer, item grasping surface and a cover sheet 14 defining a finger or hand receiving opening 20, the two sheets 12, 14 being generally rectangular (e.g., about 4¼″ wide and about 9¼″ long, although other suitable dimensions may be used). The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 each have an upper surface, a lower surface, two lateral edges, and two longitudinal edges, the longitudinal edges being longer than the lateral edges. The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are substantially similar in size and shape and each have a longitudinal length (along line L) which is longer than the lateral width (along line M). In an the depicted embodiment, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 have rounded corners. However, it will be appreciated that the shape of the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 may be another shape. For example, the lateral and longitudinal edges may be straight, curved, or any other shape capable of fitting a user's fingers.

In the depicted embodiment, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are symmetrical over both lines M and L. However, it will be appreciated that other shapes and geometries are contemplated. For example, the sheets 12, 14 may be symmetrical over only one line or none, the sheets 12, 14 may be wider at one end than the other, and/or the edges of the sheets 12, 14 may be curved in such a manner that would better fit either a right or left hand.

The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are attached together along the entire perimeter of each sheet. By attaching the two sheets 12, 14 around their entire perimeters, one continuous edge or seal 16 is formed, thereby creating pockets between the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 on either side of the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the base and cover sheets 12, 14 are attached by heat sealing the edges together along the perimeter of each sheet 12, 14. However, other methods of joining the sheets 12, 14 together are contemplated. For example, the sheets may be joined together with adhesives, press fitting, staples, sewing, or other methods known in the art. As will be explained below, by connecting the two sheets 12, 14 in this way, the mitt 10 has one continuous edge 16 to facilitate gripping the mitt 10 around a user's fingers and thumb and thereby securing the mitt 10 on the user's hand.

The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 may be formed from any suitable flexible material, including for example, material that results in the mitt being at least partially moisture resistant or impermeable, stackable, sanitary, easily dispensable, and/or generally inexpensive. For example, the sheets 12, 14 may be made of materials that are sufficiently flexible and stretchable to allow a user to flex his or her fingers and grasp an object, such as a piece of food, while wearing the mitt 10. In a preferred embodiment, the sheets 12, 14 are each made from a single piece of material. In another embodiment, the sheets 12, 14 are also strong enough that a user may move his or her fingers and grasp objects without ripping, tearing, puncturing, or otherwise damaging the mitt 10. Additionally or alternatively, the sheets 12, 14 may be made of a material that is at least partially moisture resistant or impermeable. Further, the sheets 12, 14 may also be made of a material that is, additionally, alternatively, or in any combination, stackable, sanitary, easily dispensable, biodegradable and/or recyclable, and generally inexpensive.

In an exemplary embodiment, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are made of a plastic material, such as polystyrene or polypropylene. The sheets 12, 14 may also be made of one or more other suitable materials, including, for example, laminated wax paper, vinyl, or parchment paper.

The surfaces of the sheets 12, 14 may be smooth or at least partially textured. For example, as will be described below, the lower surface of the base sheet 12 may be textured to promote a better grip of the food when worn by the user. Also, the top surface of base sheet 12 and the bottom surface of the cover sheet 14 may have a finish which will help keep the mitt on the user's hand once his or her fingers are inserted. Further, the upper surface of the cover sheet 14 may be smooth or made of a material which decreases friction to promote separation of mitts when in a stacked arrangement.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the cover sheet 14 defines an opening 20 in the center of and extending through the cover sheet 14. The opening 20 is inset from the seam 16 and thereby does not disrupt the continuous edge 16 connecting the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14. In a preferred embodiment, the opening 20 is wider laterally, along line M, than it is longitudinally, along line L. In an exemplary embodiment, the opening 20 is wide enough laterally to allow a hand to fit through while the fingers and thumb are pointed in the same direction, and the opening 20 is long enough longitudinally to permit at least part of a hand to fit through when the fingers and thumb are pointed in the same direction and form a “U” shape with the palm of the hand, such as when a user brings his thumb and fingers together to grasp an object.

The opening 20 extends substantially in the width direction of the cover sheet 12 but does not extend to the perimeter of the sheet 12 or to the seal 16. The opening 20 defines two finger pockets 24 a, 24 b between the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 located on either side of the opening 20 along line L and two margins 25 a, 25 b between the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 located on either end of the opening on line M. Further, the opening 20 is longitudinally sized to define two portions of the cover sheet 24 on opposite sides of the opening 20 which at least partially cover a user's fingers when the fingers are in the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b. In a preferred embodiment, when a user's fingers are inserted into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b, the two portions of the cover sheet 24 on opposite sides of the opening 20 stay in frictional contact with the back of the user's fingers and thereby secure the mitt 10 on the user's hand when the mitt 10 is worn. The edges of the opening 20 at the margins 25 a, 25 b may also engage the user's inserted hand to secure the mitt and provide durability and rigidity when the mitt is in use.

In an exemplary embodiment, the opening 20 is substantially symmetrical over line M and line L. However, it will be appreciated that the opening 20 may also be asymmetrical over one or both lines. Further, the opening 20 need not be located in the center of the cover sheet 14. For example, the opening 20 may be shifted longitudinally so that one finger pocket is larger than the other, the larger pocket being for fingers and the smaller pocket being for a thumb, and/or shifted laterally to better fit right or left hands, specifically.

FIGS. 2A-2D depict various embodiments of the opening 20 in the cover sheet 14. FIG. 2A depicts a finger covering mitt 10 with a generally H-shaped opening 20 with two flaps 22 a, 22 b which are substantially rectangular and extend substantially the entire width of the opening 20. FIG. 2B depicts a finger covering mitt 10 with substantially straight lateral edges defining the opening 20 and flaps 22 a, 22 b which are rounded and extend substantially the width of the opening 20. FIG. 2C depicts a finger covering mitt wherein the opening 20 is in the shape of a figure eight and the opening 20 is longitudinally offset from the centerline M. Such a design would create one finger pocket 24 b that is larger than the other finger pocket 24 a and may be beneficial for a larger finger pocket for fingers and a smaller finger pock for thumbs. FIG. 2D depicts a finger covering mitt 10 similar to that of FIG. 3A but the opening 20 has rounded edges and the flaps 22 a, 22 b do not extend substantially across the width of the opening 20. While these embodiments have been illustrated, it will be appreciated that other opening 20 shapes, sizes, and locations are also encompassed.

Alternatively, turning to FIGS. 2E-2F, the finger covering mitt 10 may not have either the margins or the flaps. FIG. 2A, depicts a finger covering mitt 10 with no flaps. The finger covering mitt 10 has a base sheet 12 and a cover sheet 14 defining an opening 20. The opening defines two finger pockets 24 a, 24 b between the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 located on either side of the opening 20 along line L and two margins 25 a, 25 b located on either side of the opening 20 along line M. The lateral edges of the cover sheet 14 defining the top and bottom of the opening 20 do not extend to the edges of the cover sheet 14 or to the continuous seal 16 and are substantially straight across the width of the opening 20. In an exemplary embodiment, as will be explained below, the distance between the lateral edges of the opening 20 may be such that the lateral edges of the cover sheet 14 defining the opening 20 will extend in an upwardly inclined direction away from the base sheet 12 when the mitts are stacked and draped over a saddle in a mitt dispensing device.

FIG. 2F depicts a finger covering mitt 10 without margins. The finger covering mitt 10 has a base sheet 12, and two cover sheets 14 a, 14 b. The cover sheets 14 a, 14 b are congruent to the upper and lower portions of the base sheet 12, respectively, and are sealed to the base sheet 12 at the edges of the cover sheets 14 a, 14 b which are congruent to the base sheet 12 to form two seals 16 a, 16 b. As the seal between the base sheet 12 and the cover sheets 14 a, 14 b is not continuous around the entire perimeter of the base sheet 12, margins are not formed on the lateral edges of the opening 20. The cover sheets 14 a, 14 b each have an edge which is unsealed and extends across the width of the mitt 10 and includes a medially projected portion defining a flap 22 a, 22 b. The unsealed edge defines an opening between the base sheet 12 and each cover sheet 14 a, 14 b through which a user may insert his or her fingers into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b. In an exemplary embodiment, as will be explained below, the distance between the flaps 22 a, 22 b is such that the flaps will extend in an upwardly inclined direction and away from the base sheet when the mitts are stacked and draped over a saddle in a mitt dispensing device. Further, the distance between the two seals 16 a, 16 b may be greater than the width of a supporting saddle.

In use, a user will insert the fingers on one of his or her hands downwardly through the opening 20 and then slide at least one finger outwardly into each finger pocket 24 a, 24 b. In typical usage, the user will put his or her index, middle, ring, and small fingers into one pocket 24 a and his or her thumb into the other pocket 24 b. The user will then slide both sets of fingers farther into the respective finger pocket 24 a, 24 b, generally until the web of his or her hand contacts the upper surface of the base sheet 12 at an area generally beneath the opening 20. In doing so, the user's fingers slide under the bottom surface of the cover sheet 14 until the tops of the fingers and the bottom surface of the cover sheet 14 are in a contacting relationship. The user is then able to keep the mitt 10 on his or her hand while he or she grips an object, such as greasy or sticky food.

The opening 20 is shaped such that the edges of the cover sheet 14 defining the opening 20 grasp or contact either the user's fingers or the back of the user's hand in a manner that keeps the mitt 10 on the user's hand as it is withdrawn from a dispensing device, as will be discussed below, and also keeps the mitt 10 on the user's hand during use. The base sheet 12 and the cover sheet 14 are of a suitable material and of such a construction that the user may move or adjust his or her fingers within the finger pockets while still maintaining the mitt 10 on his or her hand. When the user wishes to take off the finger covering mitt 10, he or she may grasp the mitt 10, either by pinching the top surface of the cover sheet 14 and the bottom surface of the base sheet 14 at either finger pocket 24 a, 24 b or by pinching the top surface of cover sheet 14 together at both finger pockets 24 a, 24 b when the user the user closes the mitt 10 by closing or clenching his covered fingers together, and then drawing his or her fingers out through the opening 20.

In the preferred embodiment, the base sheet 12, cover sheet 14, and opening 20 are sized and shaped so that one finger covering mitt 10 may fit all users and may be used for either right or left hands. However, the size and the shape of the mitt 10 may vary. For example, the mitts could come in multiple sizes, such as small, medium, and large, or the mitts could be made for right or left hands, specifically, such as by making the base and cover sheet 12, 14 curved or by shifting the opening 20 laterally and/or longitudinally.

As shown in FIG. 1, in an exemplary embodiment, the opening 20 is in the shape of a figure eight. The lateral and longitudinal edges of the opening 20 are curved with both lateral edges extending medially and longitudinally toward the center of the opening 20 thereby defining two flaps 22 a, 22 b in the cover sheet 24. Due to the shape of the opening 20 and the continuous seal 16, when the mitt is placed on the user's hand and the user inserts his or her fingers into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b, the shape of the opening increases the number of points of contact between the user's hand and the mitt 10. The increased contact between the mitt 10 and the user's hands secures the mitt 10 on the user's fingers and/or hand when the user withdraws his or her covered hand from a dispenser and while in use. Further, as will be discussed below, the flaps 22 a, 22 b make it easier for a user to see the opening 20 and to insert his or her fingers into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b when the mitts are stacked in a dispensing device.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2F, while the opening 20 has been described as a figure eight, other shapes are contemplated for the opening, such as rectangular, oval, or any other shape known in the art. Also, the mitt may be designed so that there is more than one flap on each side of the opening 20.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a finger covering mitt may be formed to include a cut pattern in the cover sheet, such that essentially no material is removed from the cover sheet. Such an arrangement may, for example, produce expanded or enlarged flaps, for example, as compared to the flaps 22 a, 22 b shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2F and described above, for additional coverage of the user's hand and/or providing of a two-ply perimeter edge of the mitt opening, as described in greater detail below. For example, one or both of the flaps may have a width (e.g., at least at the base of the flap) of at least about 65%, or at least about 75%, or at least about 85% of a total width of the finger covering mitt. In some embodiments (not shown), the mitt may be provided with a wider second flap for engagement with the user's fingers and a narrower first flap for engagement with the user's thumb. In other embodiments, as shown, the first and second flaps 22 a, 22 b may both be substantially the same width (e.g., symmetrical), for example, to facilitate installation of the mitt in either longitudinal orientation.

FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary finger covering mitt 10 including a base sheet 12 defining an outer, item grasping surface and a cover sheet 14 including an H-shaped cut pattern 15 defining flaps 22 a, 22 b that extend into abutment with each other, and that may be spread apart to provide a finger or hand receiving opening 20. The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 each have an upper surface, a lower surface, two lateral edges 11, 13, and two longitudinal edges 17, 19, the longitudinal edges being longer than the lateral edges. The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are substantially similar in size and shape and each have a longitudinal length (along line L) which is longer than the lateral width (along line M). In the illustrated embodiment, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are rectangular—in other embodiments, other shapes may be used (e.g., tapered sides/trapezoidal, rounded corners, etc.). The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 may be made of sheet materials similar to those described above.

In the depicted embodiment, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are symmetrical over both lines M and L. However, it will be appreciated that other shapes and geometries are contemplated. For example, the sheets 12, 14 may be symmetrical over only one line or none, the sheets 12, 14 may be wider at one end than the other, and/or the edges of the sheets may be curved in such a manner that would better fit either a right or left hand.

The base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 are joined together (e.g., attached or integral) along the entire perimeter of each sheet. By joining the two sheets around their entire perimeters, one continuous edge or seal 16 is formed, thereby creating pockets 24 a, 24 b between the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 on either side of the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the base and cover sheets 12, 14 are integrally formed and folded along one of the edges 11, 13, 17, 19 and attached (e.g., by heat sealing the edges together) along the other three edges. However, other methods of joining the sheets 12, 14 together are contemplated. For example, the sheets may be joined together with adhesives, press fitting, staples, sewing, or other methods known in the art. By connecting the two sheets 12, 14 in this way, the mitt 10 has one continuous outer perimeter edge 16.

In use, the flaps 22 a, 22 b may spread apart from the base sheet 12 such that the user can slip his/her thumb and fingers between the base sheet and the flaps, with the flaps providing additional coverage for the user's hand. Alternatively, the flaps 22 a, 22 b may slide or tuck into the mitt pockets 24 a, 24 b when the user's hand is inserted in the mitt. This tucked flap arrangement can provide two-ply or double layer edges on the mitt opening (e.g., across the entire mitt opening), for example, for additional strength and comfort against the user's hand (e.g., as compared to a cut edge of an opening).

In other embodiments, the cut pattern on the cover sheet may include cut lines extending longitudinally and laterally outward from a central portion of the cut pattern to produce both end flaps and side flaps at the opening. In an outward (i.e., “untucked”) configuration, the end flaps and side flaps may provide additional coverage for the portions of the hand and wrist extending from the mitt opening. In the inward or “tucked” configuration, the flaps may provide two-ply edges on the longitudinal and lateral sides of the mitt opening, for example, for additional strength and comfort against the user's hand (e.g., as compared to a cut edge of an opening).

FIGS. 3B-3J illustrate various embodiments of finger covering mitts 10 having a variety of cut patterns 15 defining longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b that may be spread apart to provide an opening 20 for receiving the user's hand therethrough. FIG. 3B illustrates a finger covering mitt 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined by an X-shape cut pattern 15. FIG. 3C illustrates a finger covering mitt 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined by an X-shape cut pattern 15 having a lateral slit mid portion 26, for example to widen the opening 20 in a lateral direction. FIG. 3D illustrates a finger covering mitt 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined by an X-shape cut pattern 15 having a longitudinal slit mid portion 26, for example to lengthen the opening 20 in a longitudinal direction. FIGS. 3E, 3F, and 3G illustrate a finger covering mitts 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined by X-shape cut patterns 15 similar to those of FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 3D, but with cross-slits 27 at the corners of the flaps to allow for further opening at the corners (which may be provided with any of the embodiments described herein). In some embodiments, these cross-slits may provide an expanded opening and/or reduce the likelihood of tearing at the ends of the flaps. FIG. 3H illustrates a finger covering mitt 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined by a generally X-shaped cut pattern 15 formed by adjoining semicircular slits. FIG. 3I illustrates a finger covering mitt 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined a generally X-shaped cut pattern 15 formed by adjoining semicircular slits having a flattened, elongated lateral slit mid portion 26, for example to widen the opening 20 in a lateral direction. FIG. 3J illustrates a finger covering mitt 10 having longitudinal end flaps 22 a, 22 b and lateral side flaps 23 a, 23 b defined by a generally X-shaped cut pattern 15 including an elongated lateral slit mid portion 26 and angled side portions.

The base and cover sheets 12, 14 may be integrally formed as an elongated strip, folded along one of the edges 11, 13, 17, 19, and attached (e.g., by heat sealing the edges together) along the other three edges. FIG. 4 illustrates a pre-folded and pre-sealed strip of mitt material 10′, with one half of the strip defining the base sheet 12 and the other half of the strip defining the cover sheet 14 with cut pattern 15 (e.g., any suitable cut pattern, including the cut pattern of FIG. 3D, as shown).

To form the mitt, as schematically shown in FIG. 5, the strip of mitt material 10′ may be supplied (e.g., payed out from a roll R), and cut to the desired length (e.g., by cutting device C), for example, twice the mitt length (for example, approximately 18½″ for an approximately 9¼″ long mitt) to provide the base sheet and cover sheet. The cut pattern is then cut in the cover sheet portion of the strip (e.g., by pattern cutting device P). In other arrangements, the pattern may be cut before the strip of material is cut.

The strip of material 10′ is then folded along one of the edge, for example, along lateral edge 13 (using, for example, automated folding equipment F) and the other three edges (e.g. lateral edge 11 and longitudinal edges 17, 19) are joined, for example, by heat sealing (e.g., using heat sealing machine H). The completed mitt 10 may then be stacked (e.g., using automated stacking arrangement S) for storage and/or distribution.

The finger covering mitts 10 may be kept in a sanitary condition and protected in a dispenser prior to use. In an inventive embodiment of a dispensing device applying at least some of the principles of the present application, a device is provided that stores multiple finger covering mitts in a manner in which a user may quickly and easily place a finger covering mitt on a plurality of fingers.

FIGS. 6-10 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a finger covering mitt dispensing device 40. The device 40 comprises a body 50 having a plurality of cavities 58 a, 58 b adapted to house the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b of a plurality of mitts 80. The body 50 may be configured in a variety of ways. Any structure capable of housing at least one finger covering mitt 10 in an orientation in which a user may insert his or her fingers into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b when the mitts are disposed in the device 40 may be used.

In the depicted embodiment, the body 50 has a base wall 52, four side walls 54 a, 54 b, 54 c, 54 d, and a top wall 56. In an exemplary embodiment, the base wall 52, side walls 54 a, 54 b, 54 c, 54 d, and at least a portion of the top wall 56 are cardboard. The top wall 56 comprises a top surface border 57 a around its perimeter and extending horizontally inward from the side walls 54 a, 54 b, 54 c, 54 d, and a flexible border 57 b extending horizontally inward from the top surface border 57 a. In an exemplary embodiment, the top surface border 57 a is made of cardboard and the flexible border 57 b is formed from a plastic material, such as polystyrene or polypropylene. The top surface border 57 a and flexible border 57 b define an aperture 59 in the interior of and extending through the top wall 56 into the interior of the body 50. In an exemplary embodiment, the top wall 56 also comprises a lid 61 (not pictured) attached to the interior edges of the top surface border 57 a and disposed above the flexible border 57 b. In an exemplary embodiment, the lid 61 is a perforated tear-off top. When the lid 61 is attached to the top surface border 57 a, the lid 61 is attached along the entirety of the interior edges of the cardboard border 57 a and completely covers the aperture 59. When the lid 61 is detached from the top wall 56 and the cardboard border 57 a, the aperture 59 is exposed and the finger covering mitts 10 may be accessed by a user. In an exemplary embodiment, the lid 61 is rectangular with rounded corners and made from cardboard. However, the lid 61 may be made from any suitable material, such as plastic or vinyl, and may be of any shape to cover the aperture 59 and/or attach to the interior edges of the cardboard border 57 a. Further, the lid 61 may not be a perforated tear-off top but may be a lid which covers the entirety of the top wall 56, a plug which securely fits in the aperture 59, or any other structure known in the art to cover a surface and/or an opening.

In the depicted embodiment, the base wall 52, side walls 54 a, 54 b, 54 c, 54 d, and top wall 56 are rectangular. In an exemplary embodiment, the finger covering mitt dispensing device 40 is a rectangular cardboard box which is about 5″ tall and 4.5″ wide and deep. Additionally, the exemplary top surface border 57 a extends about ⅛″ inwardly and horizontally from the side walls 54 a, 54 b, 54 c, 54 d and the flexible border 57 b extends about ¾″ inwardly and horizontally from the top surface border 57 a. The illustrated top surface border 57 a and flexible border 57 b have rounded corners. However, it will be appreciated that the body 50 may have different sizes and shapes. For example, the base wall 52 and top wall 56 may be circular, oval, egg shaped, or any other shape which would permit a user to easily access the finger covering mitts when the lid 61 is removed. Also, the width and depth of the dispensing device 40 need not be equivalent. The dispensing device could be longer than it is wide to better accommodate a user's hand, in either an open or partially closed position.

Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the dispensing device 40 includes a saddle 60 disposed within the body 50. In an exemplary embodiment, the saddle 60 extends from the upper surface of the base wall 52 and between two opposing side walls 54 b, 54 d. The saddle 60 defines two cavities 58 a, 58 b between the saddle 60 and the opposing side walls 54 b, 54 d. While the saddle 60 may be provided with many different shapes and contours, the illustrated saddle 60 is generally an isosceles trapezoid with a top surface 62 at its upper portion and two angled support walls 64 a, 64 b extending downwardly and distally from the edges of the top surface 62. In the preferred embodiment, the top surface 62 is oriented in a substantially horizontal plane and located equidistant between the two opposed side walls 54 b, 54 d in the body 50 and most of the way up the height of the two attached side walls 54 a, 54 c. The angled support walls 64 a, 64 b extend outwardly and downwardly from the edge of the top surface 62 toward the opposing side walls 54 b, 54 d and to the base wall 52.

In an exemplary embodiment, the saddle 60 is constructed of cardboard, is flexible, and can be compressed by a user when squeezing his or her fingers. Additionally, the top surface 62 is about ¾″ wide and, where the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b contact the base wall 52, the distance between the two angled support walls 64 a, 64 b at basewall 52 is about 2.5″ and the distance between the base of the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b and the opposing side walls 54 b, 54 d is about 1″.

Although the saddle 60 has been described with reference to the previous shapes, sizes, and materials, it will be appreciated that other shapes, sizes, and materials are contemplated. For example, the saddle 60 may be located closer to one opposite wall 54 b, 54 d to create one cavity that is larger and better suited for fingers and one cavity that is smaller and better suited for thumbs. Also, the saddle 60 may be angled, rounded, and/or curved or otherwise shaped to fit the palm of the user's hand to facilitate a proper application of the mitt 10 onto either the user's right or left hand. Additionally or optionally, the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b may include compressible pads disposed on their outer surfaces to allow a user to squeeze the compressible pads when grabbing a finger covering mitt 10 and thereby secure a better fit of a mitt on the user's hand.

Turning to FIG. 8, within the dispensing device 40, a plurality of mitts 80 are stacked and draped over the saddle 60. The base sheet 12 of each overlying mitt 10 is stacked upon the cover sheet 14 of the mitt below, with the opening 20 of the cover sheet 14 facing upward for every mitt 10. The stack of mitts 80 is draped over and supported by the saddle 60 such that the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b of each mitt 10 are disposed in the two cavities 58 a, 58 b in the dispensing device 40. The longitudinal centerline of the mitts (line M) corresponds to the centerline of the saddle 60. The plurality of mitts 10 may either be completely supported by the saddle 60 or may be only partially supported by the saddle 60 with the ends of the mitts 10 resting against the opposite side walls 54 b, 54 d of the dispensing body 50.

In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the saddle top surface 62 and/or the width of a stack of mitts draped over the saddle top surface 62 is greater than the distance between the ends of the flaps 22 a, 22 b, but smaller than the maximum longitudinal width of the opening. When the plurality of mitts 80 are stacked and draped over the saddle 60, the flaps 22 a, 22 b of the cover sheets 14 of the top-most mitt extend medially and overlap with the top surface 62 of the saddle 60.

In such arrangement, the upper edges of the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b align with the flaps 22 a, 22 b (e.g., at some point along the length of each flap) of the top-most mitt in the stack of the plurality of mitts 80 to cause the flaps 22 a, 22 b to stand up, extending away from the underlying base sheet 12 or in a direction substantially parallel to either angled support wall 64 a, 64 b, and will also separate from the base sheet 12 and cause the mitt 10 to open. The inclined orientations of the flaps 22 a, 22 b allow a user to easily identify the location of the opening 20 so that he or she may know where to place his or her hand to put on the mitt 10. The separation of the flaps 22 a, 22 b from the base sheet 12 allows the user to easily slide his or her fingers directly into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b of the mitt 10 without needing to use another hand to provide an opening to the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b. The user may simply place his or her fingers into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b and the flaps 22 a, 22 b and lower surface of the cover sheet 14 would grip the backs of the user's fingers to keep the mitt 10 on the hand as it is pulled out of the dispenser 40.

In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the top surface 62 of the saddle 60 is greater than the distance between the flaps 22 a, 22 b or two closest edges of the cover sheet 14 on either side of the opening 20. Thus, when the plurality of mitts 80 are draped over the top surface 62 of the saddle 60, the flaps 22 a, 22 b medially overlap with the top surface 62. As each mitt 10 is draped over the saddle 62 and is supported by the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b, the portions of each mitt 10 not supported by the top surface are at an incline substantially parallel to the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b which the flaps 22 a, 22 b also follow. This may, in some embodiments, create a desired effect of causing the flaps 22 a, 22 b of the uppermost mitt in the stack 80 to stand at an upward incline or direction generally parallel to the angled support walls 64 a, 64 b, as shown in FIG. 8A. This causes the flaps 22 a, 22 b to extend in an upwardly inclined manner away from the base sheet 12 of the mitt 10, making it easier for a user to visually locate the opening 20 and place the user's fingers into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b without a second hand to further separate the cover sheet 14 from the base sheet 12, as shown in FIG. 8B.

In other embodiments, for example, where a large stack of mitts 10 in the dispenser 40 form a wider upper expanse of the top mitt, in some applications, the flaps 22 a, 22 b may extend substantially horizontally, for example, toward abutment with each other (see FIG. 8C). In such an arrangement, the flaps may still be easily spread, for example, by engagement with the user's thumb and fingers (FIG. 8D) to expand the opening in the mitt to receive the user's thumb and fingers.

As shown, the top of the saddle and the angled support walls may be shaped such that as the fingertips and thumb tip contact the top mitt, force applied against the saddle and support walls causes the fingers and thumb to further open the mitt opening formed by the flaps and the pockets formed between the base sheet and the cover sheet. As the fingers and thumb slide down the angled support walls, the support walls cause the mitt to slide onto the hand with minimal effort.

In some arrangements, when the user's thumb and fingers are slid into the pockets of the mitt, the flaps remain in an outward or untucked configuration, such that the flaps either provide additional coverage for the portions of the hand and wrist extending from the mitt opening or fold outward to provide a two-ply portion at the edges of the mitt opening. In other arrangements, when the user's thumb and fingers are slid into the pockets of the mitt, gripping engagement or traction between the user's hand and the flaps pull one or more of the flaps into the mitt (e.g., into the mitt pockets) in an inward or tucked configuration, such that the flaps provide two-ply edges on the longitudinal and lateral (e.g., for the embodiments of FIGS. 3A-3J) sides of the mitt opening, for example, for additional strength and comfort against the user's hand (e.g., as compared to a cut edge of an opening).

Once the user has inserted his or her fingers into the finger covering mitt 10, he or she may withdraw his or her hand from the dispensing device 40 with the finger covering mitt 10 covering at least a portion of his or her fingers. The user's fingers will be in a partially closed, grasping, gripping, pinching, or clasping position and, when viewed from the side, the mitt will be U-shaped with the bottom surface of the base sheet 14 near finger pocket 24 a oriented toward the bottom surface of the base sheet 14 near finger pocket 24 b. In application, the user will move the tips of his or her finger(s) in finger pocket 24 a toward the tips of his or her finger(s) in finger pocket 24 b to grip an object. The bottom surface of the base sheet 12 will contact the object at the positions corresponding to the user's fingers in the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b. When used in this manner, the continuous seal 16 and opening 20 function to help keep the finger covering mitt 10 on the user's hand. Other materials, shapes, and surfaces may be utilized to facilitate better application and use of the finger covering mitt 10.

In one embodiment, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 may be made of one or more materials that facilitate the separation of the top finger covering mitt from the remainder of the plurality of finger covering mitts when the user removes the top finger covering mitt from the plurality of mitts 80. For example, either separately or in combination, the top surface of the cover sheet 14 or the bottom surface of the base sheet 12 could be made of a material with reduced friction or that is non-stick. Accordingly, when in stacked orientation, there would be less friction between the bottom surface of the base sheet 12 of a top mitt 10 and the top surface of the cover sheet 14 of a bottom mitt, permitting easier separation of the top mitt 10.

Additionally or alternatively, the base sheet 12 and cover sheet 14 may be made of one or more materials that secure the finger covering mitt 10 on a user's hand once the user's fingers are inserted into the finger pockets 24 a, 24 b. Either separately or in combination, the bottom surface of the cover sheet 14 or the top surface of the base sheet 12 may be made of a material or constructed in a manner that increases the friction between a user's hand and the cover sheet 12, base sheet 14, and/or finger pockets 24 a, 24 b. For example, bottom surface of the cover sheet 14 and/or the top surface of the base sheet 12 may be raised, abrasive, and/or partially adhesive to increase friction between the user's hand and the finger covering mitt 10.

In another possible embodiment, either in addition to or separate from those above, the finger covering mitt 10 may be constructed to enhance the user's grip of the object when the mitt 10 is worn. For example, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the base sheet 12 may be abrasive, raised, or textured to increase the friction between the mitt 10 and the object being grasped. The entire bottom surface of the base sheet 12 may be abrasive, raised, or textured. Alternatively, only the portion of the bottom surface of the base sheet 12 below a user's fingers and forming a point of contact with an object could be abrasive, raised, or textured.

When the user has finished using the finger covering mitt 10 he or she may grasp the mitt with the other hand, either by pinching the top surface of the cover sheet 14 and the bottom surface of the base sheet 12 at either finger pocket 24 a, 24 b or by pinching the top surface of cover sheet 14 together at both finger pockets 24 a, 24 b when the user closes the mitt 10 by pinching his covered fingers together, and then drawing his or her fingers out through the opening 20. Once off, the user may easily dispose of the finger covering mitt 10 and the user's fingers will be free from dirt, grease, or other contaminants or particles which would normally be transferred to a user's hands when touching the object directly. The mitt can also be pushed off, for example, using the index finger of the user's other hand, by contacting the top of the cover sheet near center line M.

The invention has been illustrated by the above description of embodiments, and while the embodiments have been described in some detail, it is not the intent of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the invention to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without department from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general or inventive concept. 

1. A finger covering mitt comprising: a base sheet portion comprising first and second longitudinal edges and first and second lateral edges defining an outer perimeter; a cover sheet portion comprising first and second longitudinal edges and first and second lateral edges defining an outer perimeter; the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion joined together along the outer perimeter of each of the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion to form a sealed perimeter of the finger covering mitt; the cover sheet portion defining an opening inset from the sealed perimeter and defining at least first and second flaps defined by a cut pattern in the cover sheet portion, such that the first and second flaps extend into abutment with each other; the sealed perimeter and the opening defining first and second finger pockets between the base sheet portion and cover sheet portion at first and second longitudinal ends of the finger covering mitt; and wherein the opening is sized to receive a user's thumb into the first finger pocket and the user's fingers into the second finger pocket.
 2. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the first and second flaps are longitudinally extending flaps.
 3. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the at least first and second flaps further comprises third and fourth flaps.
 4. The finger covering mitt of claim 3, wherein the first and second flaps are longitudinally extending flaps and the third and fourth flaps are laterally extending flaps.
 5. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cut pattern is generally X-shaped.
 6. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cut pattern is X-shaped.
 7. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cut pattern is H-shaped.
 8. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cut pattern includes a lateral slit mid-portion.
 9. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cut pattern includes a longitudinal slit mid-portion.
 10. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cut pattern is symmetrical about a longitudinal center line of the finger covering mitt.
 11. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal center point of the cut pattern is offset from a longitudinal center line of the finger covering mitt.
 12. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, wherein the cover sheet portion substantially covers the entire base sheet portion when the finger covering mitt is in a flat condition.
 13. The finger covering mitt of claim 1, comprising a strip of mitt material defining the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion, the strip of mitt material having a folded portion defining one of the first longitudinal edge, the second longitudinal edge, the first lateral edge, and the second lateral edge of each of the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion.
 14. The finger covering mitt of claim 13, wherein the others of the first longitudinal edge, the second longitudinal edge, the first lateral edge, and the second lateral edge of the base sheet portion are heat sealed to corresponding ones of the first longitudinal edge, the second longitudinal edge, the first lateral edge, and the second lateral edge of the cover sheet portion.
 15. A finger covering mitt comprising: a base sheet portion comprising first and second longitudinal edges and first and second lateral edges defining an outer perimeter; a cover sheet portion comprising first and second longitudinal edges and first and second lateral edges defining an outer perimeter; the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion joined together along the outer perimeter of each of the base sheet portion and the cover sheet portion to form a sealed perimeter of the finger covering mitt; the cover sheet portion defining an opening between first and second longitudinal ends of the finger covering mitt and defining a first flap proximate the first longitudinal end and a second flap proximate the second longitudinal end, wherein at least the second flap has a width that is at least about 65% of a total width of the finger covering mitt; the sealed perimeter and the opening defining a first and second finger pockets between the base sheet portion and cover sheet portion at the corresponding first and second longitudinal ends of the finger covering mitt; and wherein the opening is sized to receive a user's thumb into the first finger pocket and the user's fingers into the second finger pocket.
 16. The finger covering mitt of claim 15, wherein the first and second flaps are defined by a cut pattern in the cover sheet portion, such that the first and second flaps extend into abutment with each other.
 17. The finger covering mitt of claim 16, wherein the cut pattern further defines third and fourth laterally extending flaps.
 18. The finger covering mitt of claim 16, wherein the cover sheet portion substantially covers the entire base sheet portion when the finger covering mitt is in a flat condition.
 19. A method of making a finger covering mitt, the method comprising: providing a strip of mitt material including a base sheet portion and a cover sheet portion; cutting a cut pattern in the cover sheet portion; folding the strip of material along a central portion of the strip to form a first edge of the finger covering mitt; and sealing joined edges of the folded strip to form second, third and fourth edges of the finger covering mitt.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein cutting the cut pattern in the cover sheet portion comprises cutting the cut pattern without removing material from the cover sheet portion. 